Physics Nuclear Physics MDCAT 2008
PMDC Verified Question 97 of 98
When a helium atom loses an electron, it becomes:
A
An alpha particle
B
A positive helium ion
C
Proton
D
A negative helium ion
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option B: A positive helium ion


Concept:

A neutral helium atom consists of 2 protons, 2 neutrons, and 2 orbiting electrons. Ionization is the process of losing or gaining electrons.

Solution:

  • If a neutral helium atom (\(\text{He}\)) loses exactly one electron, it retains 1 electron and its 2 protons.


  • Because there is now a net positive charge (+2 from protons, -1 from electron), it becomes a singly ionized positive helium ion (\(\text{He}^{+}\)).


  • To become an alpha particle, it would need to lose both of its electrons (\(\text{He}^{2+}\)).


Why other options are incorrect:

An alpha particle requires the loss of two electrons. A proton is a hydrogen nucleus, not helium. Losing an electron creates a positive ion, not a negative one.

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